Co‑cyprindiol and Epiduo gel

Co‑cyprindiol 

Take one tablet at the same time each day for 21 days, then pause for 7 days. After this 7-day break you repeat subsequent courses of 21 days on, 7 days off.

Starting co‑cyprindiol on the first day of your period gives you immediate contraceptive protection.

Epiduo gel

• Before bed, Gently wash your face, rinse and pat dry.

• Smooth a thin layer of Epiduo gel onto your clean, dry skin.

• Let the gel dry fully before using moisturiser or putting on make‑up, and use a non‑oily sunscreen each morning (SPF 30+).

Epiduo gel may irritate your eyes and the benzoyl peroxide in it can bleach towels, clothing, bedding or even your hair. So always wash your hands after applying it.

Acne in women is often driven by androgens (male hormones) like testosterone, which increase oil production in your skin.

Co-cyprindiol contains ethinylestradiol (a type of oestrogen hormone) and cyproterone (an anti-androgen), so it can:

• Block androgens, making your skin less oily (and shiny). This means pores aren’t as likely to get clogged (which can cause new breakouts).

• Targeting the hormonal cause of acne also means co-cyprindiol can help with other conditions related to excess androgens like polycystic ovary syndrome or hirsutism (excessive female hair growth).

Epiduo gel contains two active ingredients: 

• Benzoyl peroxide is antibacterial and also has an anti-inflammatory effect. This can reduce redness, swelling and help prevent breakouts. 

• Adapalene is a topical retinoid. Its main actions are to normalise skin cell development, prevent pores from being blocked and promote skin renewal.

This pairing works best for women whose acne features pustules (small red spots with a white tip). By tackling both the hormonal trigger and the surface spots, it improves the cause and the appearance of acne.

Co‑cyprindiol 

As a combined oral contraceptive, the possible side effects of co‑cyprindiol are similar to other contraceptive pills. Though not every woman gets them, common side effects include:

• Headaches

• Mild sickness (nausea)

• Sore breasts tenderness or breast pain

• Mood swings or low mood

• Changes in sex drive (libido)

• Slight weight gain or sometimes weight loss

There are also some rare but more serious risks of side effects from co‑cyprindiol that you should be mindful of.

• All combined pills carry a small increased risk of blood clots.

• Co‑cyprindiol has been associated with a slightly increased risk of breast cancer if used for many years.

If you have any warning signs like unexplained calf pain, chest pain, or major mood depression while taking co‑cyprindiol, seek medical advice straight away. 

Epiduo gel 

As it combines two active ingredients, when you use Epiduo gel you could get side effects from adapalene (a retinoid) or benzoyl peroxide. Common side effects include dry or peeling skin, redness, mild burning or stinging and Itching or irritation.

The benzoyl peroxide in Epiduo gel can also increase your sensitivity to sunlight. So, it’s even more important to protect yourself. Apply a non oily, fragrance-free sunscreen daily (SPF 50), try to stay out of the sun when it’s most intense and avoid sun beds. 

Full details on use and safety are in the co-cyprindiol and Epiduo gel patient information leaflets.